What works for severe TMJ pain?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain can be really tough to deal with. It can make it hard to talk, chew, or even open your mouth. Luckily, there are ways to help manage severe TMJ pain. Three treatments that have been shown to work are Botox, physical therapy (PT), and acupuncture.

Botox injections can help relax the muscles around the jaw, reducing pain and tension. Many people find relief with this treatment, especially if their pain is caused by muscle tightness or clenching.

Physical therapy (PT) is another great option. A physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen and stretch your jaw muscles. PT can also help improve your posture and teach relaxation techniques.

Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese treatment, uses tiny needles to help relieve pain by improving blood flow and reducing tension in the jaw area.

If you have severe TMJ pain, talk to your doctor about these treatment options.